5 Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is one of the most popular choices for homeowners in the UK because of its durability, versatility, and stylish appearance, all at an affordable price. 

However, to maximise its lifespan and keep your floor in pristine condition, proper and regular care and maintenance are key. 

In this guide, we’ll share some practical tips to help you protect and care for your laminate flooring.

Why Proper Maintenance Matters for Laminate Flooring

Treated properly, laminate flooring can be a worthwhile investment for your home, and with the right care and maintenance, you can truly reap the benefits. Taking good care of your flooring will lead to: 

• Cost Savings: Regular upkeep prevents costly repairs or replacements, saving you money in the long run.

• Durability: Proper care enhances the longevity of your laminate flooring, allowing it to withstand daily wear and tear.

• Better Appearance: A well-maintained floor retains its attractive finish, keeping your home looking polished and inviting.

Taking the time to maintain your flooring reduces the environmental impact of frequent replacements. Plus, you get some peace of mind knowing that your floor has received the proper care it needs for longevity while also aligning with eco-friendly values.

Good maintenance habits will ensure your laminate flooring remains an attractive and practical feature of your home for years to come.

Daily Cleaning Tips for Laminate Floors

Daily cleaning is an important part of your routine when it comes to laminate flooring maintenance. 

To help you keep it looking great at all times, here are some essential tips to keep your floors spotless and free of damage:

Use the Right Cleaning Tools

To avoid scratching or dulling your laminate flooring, we suggest using the following tools specifically designed for cleaning hard surfaces:

• Soft Microfibre Mops: These effectively pick up dust and debris without leaving scratches.

• Vacuum with a Hard Floor Setting: A vacuum cleaner equipped with a hard floor attachment prevents bristle damage.

• Dry Dusting Cloths: Ideal for quick touch-ups and removing loose particles.

Top Tip: You should always avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool or hard-bristle brushes that can damage the surface.

Avoid Excess Moisture

While laminate flooring is designed to deal with minor spills, excessive moisture can cause serious and permanent damage over time.

Why Water is a Risk for Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers. Its core is made from compressed wood fibres, and when water seeps into the seams or edges, it can cause swelling, warping, or delamination. 

To prevent this, we suggest:

• Using a damp mop for cleaning.

• Wiping up spills immediately with a dry cloth.

• Avoiding steam mops or soaking the floor during cleaning.

Pro Tip: If possible, keep your home’s humidity levels stable, as high humidity can contribute to moisture-related issues. 

How to Prevent Damage to Your Laminate Flooring

Using furniture pads and protecting it from harsh sunlight can help prevent damage to your laminate flooring. 

Preventing damage before it occurs is the best way to keep your laminate floor looking its best. To help you achieve this, we recommend these simple measures:

Use Furniture Pads and Rugs

Heavy furniture and constant foot traffic can leave dents, scratches and scuff marks. To keep your floor always looking its best, we suggest protecting your flooring with:

• Felt Pads: Attach these to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when moving them.

• Rugs or Mats: Place rugs in high-traffic areas, such as hallways and entryways, to reduce wear and tear.

• Protective Coasters: Use coasters under heavy furniture to distribute weight evenly.

Top Tip: Politely ask family members and visitors to remove shoes at the door to keep dirt and grit out.

If you do get marks on your floor, read our blog about how to hide scratches on your laminate floor.

Protect from Sunlight

Long periods of exposure to direct sunlight can cause laminate flooring to fade and diminish over time. 

To reduce this risk, you could always try doing the following:

• Install blinds, curtains, or UV-blocking window films.

• Rearrange furniture regularly to ensure even exposure.

• Use area rugs in sunlit spots to shield the floor from direct rays.

Taking these measures not only preserves the look of your flooring, but also helps maintain its structural integrity.

Effective Stain Removal Methods for Laminate Floors

However careful you think you might be, spills and stains are inevitable in homes, and dealing with them quickly and in the right way is crucial to maintaining your floor’s look.

Quick Action for Common Spills

For everyday spills like water, coffee, or juice, you should do the following:

1. Soak up or blot the spill immediately with a dry cloth.

2. Gently clean the area with a damp cloth or laminate-safe cleaner.

3. Dry the surface thoroughly to prevent moisture damage.

Acting quickly is critical when dealing with spills. The faster you act, the less likely the liquid will cause discolouration or warping.

Tips for Tough Stains

For stubborn stains like ink, grease, or nail polish, try the following:

• Use a small amount of acetone-based nail polish remover on a clean cloth.

• Gently rub the stain until it lifts, then clean the area with a damp cloth.

• Always test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure no discolouration.

Avoid using strong chemicals or materials that can take the protective layer of your laminate flooring.

Long-Term Maintenance Habits to Keep Your Floor Looking New

Adopt long-term habits like seasonal cleaning, regular inspections, and climate control keep your flooring looking in top condition year-round. 

Adopting long-term maintenance habits will preserve the beauty of your laminate flooring for years:

• Seasonal Cleaning: Deep clean your laminate floors every few months with a specialised laminate cleaner. Avoid wax-based or oil-based products.

• Regular Inspections: Check for signs of damage, such as lifting edges or cracks, and address them promptly.

• Climate Control: Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain stable indoor humidity, reducing the risk of warping.

Top Tip: Focus on areas under furniture and along skirting boards where dirt can gather unnoticed.

Check out our range of laminate floor accessories or explore our entire range of laminate floor styles to find the perfect one for you. 

FAQs Section:

How often should I clean my laminate flooring?

We suggest using a dry mop or vacuum every day to remove dirt and dust. Deep cleaning with a specialist laminate cleaner can be carried out every few months or as needed.

Can I use a steam mop on laminate floors?

We don’t encourage using steam mops on laminate flooring as the moisture can penetrate the seams and cause swelling and warping. 

What are the best products to clean laminate flooring?

Use products specifically designed for laminate floors, such as mild, pH-balanced cleaners. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners, as they can damage the surface.

How do I prevent scratches on laminate flooring?

Use furniture pads under chair and table legs, avoid wearing high heels indoors, and regularly sweep the surface to remove dirt that could scratch it.

What’s the best way to remove stains from laminate floors?

For most stains, blot the area with a damp cloth and use a laminate-safe cleaner. For tougher stains, acetone-based nail polish remover can be effective.